"Galuppi's 12-movement setting of Psalm 110: Confitebor tibi, Domine (I will give thanks unto the Lord) was given its UK premiere at the concert. Apart from a brief section employing an additional two flutes, strings and a chamber organ were the only instrumentation in the work, while three solo singers, Zoe Challenor, soprano, countertenor James Bowman and baritone Paul Carey Jones, declared the text in varying fashion. Initially, the three voices combined in stylish counterpoint, while the instruments were tuneful and harmonic.
"At 'Confessio et magnificentia', Jones' rich baritone resonated against the cellist's obligato. James Bowman, characteristically dramatic and assertive, crescendoed expressively on long-held vowels, then produced admirable florid runs in 'Memoriam fecit'. The trio then converged in flowing polyphony for 'Memor erit'. Soprano and countertenor were a lovely combination when they sang 'Fidelia omnia'in melodious legato.
"As the jubilant conclusion of 'sicut erat in principio' was reached the three singers blended superbly. Constant communication and cooperation of every musician involved achieved an outstanding first hearing of a motet, worthy of attention."
Jill Hopkins, This is Worcestershire, 30th January 2004.
